More than 20 cruise liners will be making a stop-over in Cape Town this month alone, boosting tourism and local businesses. Cruise Cape Town, powered by Wesgro, says this is indicative of a strong cruise season.
Over 20 cruise liners will stop-over in Cape Town
For the Cruise Season for the 2024/25 season, which ends in June, there will be 76 ship calls at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal. This is an increase of the 67 of the previous season. Wesgro says Cruise Tourism contributed R1.32 billion to the regional economy during the 2023/24 season. This in turn contributed to economic growth and job creation.
A Wesgro Executive says during the 2023/24 season, cruise tourism contributed R1.32 billion to the regional economy, up from R1.2 billion in the previous period. The total expenditure generated by vessels and passengers reached R1.5 billion, surpassing the R1.4 billion recorded the year before.
Cruise Tourism season – 24 Ship Calls in March
The CEO of Wesgro, Wrenelle Stander says that March has traditionally been a key month for cruise tourism, with Cape Town’s late-summer weather making it a popular stop on international cruise routes. A representative of the organization says many ships also reposition between hemispheres during this time, making Cape Town an attractive destination for operators and travellers alike.
Stander says, “The growth in cruise arrivals this March highlights Cape Town’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination.”
Wesgro is the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape.
She added. “Beyond the immediate tourism boost, the industry has positive ripple effects, from tour operators and transport services, to restaurants, hotels and retailers.”
Boosting tourism and local businesses
The Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Dr. Ivan Meyer, echoed Stander’s sentiment. He says they are anticipating a bumper month for cruise ships.
He added, “The growth in tourism numbers will provide a significant boost to our tourism sector, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and showcasing the world-class attractions that make the Western Cape a must-visit destination.”
Queen Mary 2 cruise ship
At the same time, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth at the City of Cape Town, Alderman James Vos says with more ships in port, the city is preparing for increased activity in and around the terminal.
For every 36-cruise passenger arrival, one job is created
He added that the City is taking proactive traffic management steps, together with our partners, to manage this increase in arrivals.
Vos elaborated, “Cape Town offers an exceptional experience for cruise passengers, and the March arrivals will not only create a buzz in the city but will provide a major boost to our economy as for every 36-cruise passenger arrival, one job is created.’’
By www.GlynLowe.com from Hamburg, Germany – Anthem of the Seas – Cruise Ship in Hamburg, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=46635956
IN SHORT:
Cape Town is expecting 24 ship calls this March, boosting tourism and local businesses
76 ship calls are so far scheduled for the 2024/25 season, up from 67 last season
Cruise tourism contributed R1.32 billion to the regional economy during the 2023/24 season, contributing to economic growth and job creation
Wesgro adds tha the V&A Waterfront, which operates the Cape Town Cruise Terminal, has designated transport options for cruise passengers, and enhanced security measures. There will also be increased traffic marshals on days where high volumes are expected.
Merentia joined the media world in 1996 and in 2001, she took her first steps in the broadcasting world. In her free time, she likes to go on adventures in the city. She also likes to learn new dances, not that she is any good at that.
Upgrades to Tafelberg Road have been concluded ahead of the winter rains. So says the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility,...
